BLACKPOOL Illuminations must not stagnate believes its manager Richard Ryan as the debate continues on the future of the seaside's shining glory.

And Blackpool Challenge Partnership is more than happy to step in and offer a helping hand with funds from the Single Regeneration Budget if the right idea comes along.

BCP partnership manager Alan Cavill said: "There are no specific plans for the allocation of the SRB funds yet, but we are definitely looking at projects which will improve the tourism product.

"And I see no reason why the lights couldn't benefit if the right innovative idea is put forward. The lights are still what they were 20 years ago broadly speaking and although we do have some sponsorship now it needs to be on a much bigger scale.

"They need investment from the private sector and a sustainable vision that will not look dated in another five years and need revamping again. "And it shouldn't be down to the visitor to pay. Blackpool lights are an established free attraction which should stay that way."

Illuminations manager Mr Ryan added: "When it comes to Blackpool Illuminations we have a fantastic brand name and the tradition of repeat visitors.

'We must enhance what we have and use development to go from strength to strength.

"The Stanley Park idea is very nice but where will people park?

There is a similar scheme in Walsall's Arboretum Park but the equipment is vastly inferior to ours and, although it's very nice and provides the total experience of sound, vision and interactivity, it's still very dated.

"It's also aimed at smaller children rather than the whole family.

"And what we must remember is that their park had all the electric infrastructure already in place."